This program aims to identify and support regionally or sub-regionally significant infrastructure projects in the Hunter region that relieve infrastructure constraints, open new economic opportunities and drive economic growth making the Hunter a better place to work, live and do business. It enhances the Hunter’s infrastructure, including transport, education, water and health infrastructure to support economic growth and enhance the liveability of the region.

A priority for the HIIF Board is the preparation of a Hunter Region 20 Year Infrastructure Plan, setting out the long term infrastructure priorities in the Hunter region based on 5, 10 and 20 year increments.

The government allocated $350 million to the Fund over four years, commencing in the 2011-12 financial year. A further $100 million was then added to the Fund in the 2014 State Budget. As announced in the 2015-16 NSW Budget, the government has committed an additional funding of $13.6 million for this program.

The program recently invited applications for projects with priority infrastructure that will drive economic growth in the Hunter region. A total of $50 million is available through the NSW government’s Restart NSW Fund. Applicants must demonstrate that other funding is available to operate, maintain and renew the infrastructure.

Project nominations involving partnerships of these groups or organisations will also be eligible.

Projects which demonstrate collaboration across a number of organisations are encouraged.

Eligible Activities

Eligible projects must be a regional or sub-regional economic or social infrastructure project within the following categories:
- Transport, including public roads, airports and the movement of freight
- Water and waste water facilities
- Telecommunication installations
- Innovation and research establishments
- Education facilities
- Hospital and other health facilities and services
- Emergency services, including law and order facilities
- Recreational and sporting facilities as well as major cultural and entertainment venues

Projects must be located in the local government areas of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Port Stephens, Cessnock, Singleton, Upper Hunter, Muswellbrook, Great Lakes, Dungog and Gloucester.

Funding is available for the capital costs of projects and not the recurrent funding requirements.